The spot price of gold has reached a historic high exceeding $5,000 per ounce due to escalating global tensions. Recent events, including President Trump’s Greenland takeover threat and internal US tensions, have contributed to the surge in the price of gold.
Financial experts predict that the price of gold could continue to rise towards $6,000 this year amid growing uncertainties and robust demand from central banks and retail investors. Russ Mould, investment director at broker AJ Bell, highlighted that investors are turning to gold as a traditional safe haven in the current volatile environment.
As gold prices soar, there is increasing discussion about the role of gold in pension portfolios. Mike Ambery, retirement savings director at Standard Life, emphasized that while gold can provide a hedge against market uncertainties, it is essential for individuals to understand the benefits and limitations before incorporating it into their pension investments.
Ambery outlined two main ways to hold gold in a pension – through physical gold in a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) or via Gold ETCs (Exchange Traded Commodities) available on various pension platforms. Each method has its own considerations in terms of fees, risks, and practicalities, requiring savers to carefully evaluate their options.
A report has emerged suggesting that Beauty Bay, an online beauty retailer founded in 1999, is exploring strategic options, including a potential sale of the business. The company, based in Manchester, offers a wide range of beauty products from over 200 brands, including its own product line.
Meanwhile, the hospitality sector in the UK is facing challenges, with hundreds of businesses closing in the final months of 2025. Pubs, in particular, are experiencing closures at a rate of two per day, prompting discussions about potential support measures from the government to address the industry’s struggles.
Sainsbury’s has announced significant discounts through its Nectar card program, offering half-price savings on selected fruit, vegetables, and dairy products for a limited period. Customers can take advantage of these deals by scanning their Nectar card in stores or linking it to their online Sainsbury’s account.
EDF is reintroducing its Sunday Saver challenge, offering customers free electricity on Sundays in exchange for reducing peak electricity consumption during weekdays. The initiative aims to incentivize energy efficiency among customers with smart meters, providing opportunities for cost savings.
Ryanair anticipates strong profits following a rise in passenger numbers and average fares. The airline’s performance has been bolstered by increased bookings during key holiday periods, contributing to its positive outlook for the financial year. Additionally, Ryanair credits recent publicity from a high-profile dispute for driving sales growth.
Lastly, a study revealed a growing acceptance of AI shopping assistants among UK consumers, with nearly half open to letting AI manage their entire shopping journey. The increasing popularity of AI in shopping underscores the evolving retail landscape, prompting retailers to adapt their payment infrastructure to support seamless AI-driven transactions.
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